As Maharashtra commemorated the 16th anniversary of the 26/11 terror attacks, key figures from the state came together to pay their respects at a memorial in Mumbai. The event was attended by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, whose upcoming resignation is set to create political turmoil and potentially form a new government. The day also saw tensions rise in Udaipur's royal family feud, Trump's plans to appoint Kash Patel to a key position, and unrest in Bangladesh over the arrest of a Hindu leader.
Mumbai Terror Attack: 16 Years of Remembrance and Unresolved Issues
On November 26, 2008, Mumbai, India, witnessed one of the deadliest terror attacks in its history. The coordinated strikes by Pakistani militants left 166 people dead and over 300 injured.
Background
The Mumbai terror attacks were carried out by 10 Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists who sailed from Karachi, Pakistan, to Mumbai by boat. They targeted various sites, including the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, the Oberoi Trident Hotel, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus railway station, and the Jewish Center.
The terrorists held hostages and engaged in fierce gun battles with security forces for over three days. The Indian Army, Navy, and police eventually regained control, killing nine of the attackers and capturing one, Mohammad Ajmal Kasab.
Commemoration and Political Turmoil
On the 16th anniversary of the attacks, Maharashtra commemorated the victims with a memorial service in Mumbai. Amidst the remembrance, political tensions arose as Chief Minister Eknath Shinde faces resignation and a possible government change.
Impact and Aftermath
The Mumbai terror attacks had a profound impact on India and the world. They highlighted the threat of cross-border terrorism and led to increased security measures at airports, ports, and other vulnerable targets.
The attack also strained relations between India and Pakistan. The Indian government accused Pakistan of supporting LeT, which is based in the Pakistani city of Lahore. Pakistan denied the allegations but vowed to cooperate in the investigation.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
Q1: Who was responsible for the Mumbai terror attacks? A1: The Pakistani militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
Q2: How many people were killed in the attacks? A2: 166 people.
Q3: Was anyone caught and convicted for the attacks? A3: Yes, Mohammad Ajmal Kasab, one of the attackers, was captured and sentenced to death in 2009.
Q4: What were the long-term consequences of the attacks? A4: Increased security measures, heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, and a renewed focus on counter-terrorism efforts.
Q5: What is the current status of the investigation into the attacks? A5: Pakistan has not fully cooperated in the investigation, and several suspects remain at large. The Indian government continues to press for justice for the victims.
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